Construction for the future Green Line LRT in the southeast community of Ogden is progressing into the next phase, with road closures and detours being put in place. The preliminary construction work includes extending 78 Avenue S.E. through a tunnel under the CP Rail line and building a new road connection on the east side of the tracks to replace the at-grade crossing at 69 Avenue S.E. The purpose of this work is to prepare the area for the future LRT line to be built and to avoid traffic congestion caused by the at-grade crossing. The next phase of the project involves major roadwork on 78th Avenue between the CP Rail tracks and Ogden Road, starting on April 22. This phase will include upgrades such as a multi-use pathway, two-way vehicle traffic, and a turning lane approaching Ogden Road.
Residents in the community have mixed feelings about the upcoming road closures and construction. While many are looking forward to having the Green Line run through the area, they are concerned about the road closures and disruptions to their daily routines. Some residents, like Jill Woronchak, are worried about the impact the construction will have on their properties, as landscaping and sidewalks may be affected. Access to driveways and alleyways may be temporarily impacted during the roadwork, with traffic and pedestrian detours planned in the area. Waste and recycling services are expected to continue as normal, but collection for homes south of 78th Avenue will be from behind residences.
Despite the inconveniences, project officials are working to minimize disruptions and ensure that residents can navigate the area during construction. Russell Mercer, a nearby resident, has expressed concerns about parking outside his home and increased traffic due to the community resource center nearby. The project team is planning to provide enough room for vehicles to turn around on the streets that will be affected by the construction of 78 Avenue. Construction in the area began last summer, with crews building embankments to temporarily move the CP Rail lines to make way for the tunnel at 78 Avenue and a pedestrian tunnel on 72 Avenue S.E. Noble-Johnson emphasized the importance of completing this critical work to pave the way for the main Green Line construction.
The phase of construction on 78 Avenue is expected to be completed in the fall, despite the potential inconveniences experienced by residents during this time. Some residents are focusing on the long-term benefits of having a new LRT station in the area, which will provide convenient transportation options for commuting downtown or other destinations. Once the tunnel is open, 78 Avenue S.E. will feature a roundabout east of the CP Rail tracks and will not be designated as a truck route. Overall, the construction work in Ogden is part of a larger effort to prepare the area for the future Green Line LRT, with project officials aiming to minimize disruptions and ensure a smooth transition for residents.
